Moral Decay
In today’s world, it’s hard not to feel the pervasive presence of moral decay, where honesty, compassion, and integrity seem to be eroding at an alarming rate. The very fabric of family ties, once regarded as sacred, is unraveling, revealing a deeper issue: the deterioration of moral values within our closest relationships.
We live in a world where brotherly love has been replaced by scheming and cheating, even among blood relatives. There is a growing absence of empathy, conscience, and compassion—traits that once formed the cornerstone of familial bonds. In many instances, blood is no longer thicker than water. When family members resort to shallow and self-serving behavior, there’s no magic left in those relationships, no fluidity, only stagnation and bitterness.
My personal experience serves as a striking example of this moral decay. When my family was financially stable, living abroad in the Gulf, my relatives eagerly reached out, seeking help and companionship. I recall my dad’s sister calling to announce the birth of her child, even asking us to suggest names for the baby. However, when circumstances shifted and we returned to India after the recession, those same relatives who once sought our attention suddenly “forgot” to invite me to her child's holy communion, despite the fact that I was studying in the same town where the event took place. It’s clear that their relationship with us was based on what we could provide at the time, and once that material benefit was no longer present, so was the connection.
This pattern of selfishness and disregard extends beyond one branch of the family tree. My mom’s brother, for example, avoids our calls, fearing we might ask for money, when in reality, we only call to check in on how he’s doing. When we are in need of emotional support, those who are supposed to be the closest to us are nowhere to be found. This highlights a transactional mindset that is unfortunately common among relatives today.
Worse still, these same family members are quick to point out perceived flaws without recognizing or appreciating our achievements. Recently, I received an award from my company—a significant milestone in my career. Yet, neither my mom’s brother nor any of my relatives acknowledged it. There was no congratulatory message, no appreciation for my hard work. However, when I’m seen in public with a male friend, rumors start swirling, with the automatic assumption that he’s my boyfriend. They prefer gossip over encouragement, choosing to dim my light rather than celebrate any success.
These experiences have led me to a realization: just because someone is family doesn’t mean they deserve a place in your life. If blood relations bring only manipulation, lies, and betrayal, there’s no need to maintain those connections. It’s a harsh truth, but a necessary one. When family ceases to embody the values of love, support, and kindness, it’s time to reevaluate the role they play in your life.
Moral decay is not limited to families but is seen in society at large. People chase material success, often at the expense of their integrity. They strive to accumulate wealth for their children, but what if their children don’t live to inherit it? What if they lose their moral compass along the way? The harsh reality is that no one can enjoy the fruits of their dishonesty for long. Death, the ultimate equalizer, reminds us of the fleeting nature of life and possessions. In the end, no amount of wealth or scheming can replace the peace that comes from living with integrity.
In conclusion, moral decay is a troubling phenomenon that has deeply affected our world. Whether through the erosion of family bonds or the larger societal trend toward self-interest, it’s clear that something fundamental has been lost. It is up to each of us to decide whether we’ll contribute to this decay or work toward preserving the values that make life worth living—compassion, empathy, and honesty. After all, our own experiences and how we treat others form the best lessons in life, and they are far more valuable than any material gain.
